Edna Lau
A Lifelong Learner
Welcome!
I am originally from Vancouver, beautiful British Columbia. Born and raised in Canada, I have had the wonderful opportunity to experience life abroad with my family.
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For the past 28 years, my core work experience has been in elementary education at international schools in Hong Kong, Beijing, Singapore, and Shanghai. I am also deeply involved in Dance and Theatre with ES, MS, and HS students wherever I go—whether at my own school or as a visiting ISTA Artist. I count myself extremely blessed to have crossed paths with so many wonderful people: students, parents, teachers, colleagues, and friends.
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Over the years, I have been fortunate to participate in extensive professional development and to take on increasingly significant leadership roles in curriculum development. I have led teams in designing transdisciplinary, project-based inquiry units that make experiential learning relevant, engaging, and challenging. I am well versed in incorporating Readers and Writers Workshop, Math Workshop, STEAM, technology, and action-based, service-oriented learning, and I guide colleagues in embedding these approaches into their practice. I thrive on the positive energy generated through productive collaboration and believe deeply in the strength of a professional learning community that grows together.
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My knowledge of curriculum and my leadership experience have served me well in supporting and directing teams through major initiatives and periods of change. This includes adopting new curriculum standards, implementing school-wide programmes, and using data and coaching to strengthen best practices. I believe sustainable improvement is only possible through collaboration; therefore, I place great value on building strong, trusting relationships as we work toward a shared mission and vision. I find great satisfaction in every “aha” moment, in achievements big or small, and in the collective learning that takes place when teams feel supported, valued, and inspired.
​More recently, my role as Early and Primary Years Principal has further elevated my understanding of both the micro and macro dynamics within an organization and the complex work required to lead a school. I believe firmly in harnessing the collective expertise of a community to build synergy and drive meaningful, learner-centered change—for students, staff, parents, and all community members. I am confident in establishing and sustaining a strong culture of learning, using clear protocols, routines, and norms of collaboration to support growth and continuous improvement.
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As an educator and leader, I firmly believe that nurturing a growth mindset while maintaining clear and high expectations is key. This means creating a warm and supportive environment where students and colleagues feel safe to take risks in their learning. I aim to motivate others by helping them tap into their inner strengths and abilities through differentiation, scaffolding, and discovering what truly sparks their interest and inspires them.
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In this fast-changing world, my hope is to nurture well-rounded lifelong learners who are compassionate, strong in character, and equipped with the skills and resilience to face any challenges that come their way. I am committed to leading with integrity, empathy, and vision, ensuring that the individuals and teams I serve feel empowered, capable, and connected in their learning journey.
Preparing our children today, to create solutions for tomorrow - Learning by Design
